Confessions of a Fashion Stylist
Every season we are introduced to new trends designed by some magnificent designers who spend hours on end making the perfect garment. When you finally see the clothes on the runway or in your favourite publication you fall in love with the look and it’s mostly down to the stylists who are responsible for crafting and coordinating garments and accessories to create a desired look. The people behind the scenes rarely ever get a look in. We spoke to London based, Fashion Stylist and Creative Director, Rebekah Roy who gives us an insight into her job.
Rebekah Roy is a style and cultural influencer and her work has been featured in international publications including Drapers, Glamour, Zink Magazine and VOGUE.COM. Rebekah was once dubbed by Time Out Magazine ‘One of the Top 100 “most original and influential people in the UK creative and media industries’. Rebekah’s work has taken her all over the world and here in a nutshell she tells us ‘Styling is not a cookie cutter job’.
What is the number one misconception about being a stylist?
People assume fashion is glamorous. I have been fortunate enough to travel the world and have some amazing adventures because of my work, but it isn’t all glamorous. People aren’t meant to see behind the scenes, all the effort that goes into every job. In most creative fields you never see the work that goes into bringing something to life and really that’s the beauty of it. It’s like when you go to see a film, you just enjoy the film you don’t think about all the time, effort and money that it took to make the film. It’s normal for me to be running around London with a case picking up items, making tea on set, sewing on a button or taking up a hem or steaming clothes, no part of the job is beneath you – it’s not glamorous but it’s part of the job. You do what it takes to get the job done.
Style is about individuality, so what do you think makes a good stylist?
There are so many elements that make a good stylist, from having a good relationship with the designers and PR companies, understanding trends and being a team player. It’s important to know what kind of work you like to do and what your style is all about. Styling is very creative so explore your creativity as much as possible and figure out what kind of work or style you would like to do. Take risks and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
What has been the most memorable moment of your career so far?
I have had so many memorable moments in my career. I really love styling and have worked with so many talented and creative people over the years. I love the feeling of when a project comes to together, the synergy of working with great people and you always get something better than you expected. I love the moment when the models are lined up backstage waiting for the show to start or you find that perfect dress for your client. I’ve travelled to some extraordinary places and see the world in a different way and I don’t think I would have had those opportunities if I didn’t work in fashion.
How do you work out what works for each client?
Every client is different, and it takes time to get to know each client and understand what they want and what you have to offer. I research my clients and try to learn as much about them as possible so that I can understand the direction they want to move towards and find the right options for them. So much of my work is research and making mood boards. Each client is unique and has different needs, it’s important to understand that – you don’t want to dress all your clients in the same way. Styling is not a cookie cutter job.
How do you solve conflicts of style with your clients?
I present my clients with a lot of strong options to find out what works for them, what fits well and what’s event appropriate. I don’t have conflicts with my clients. It’s not how I work or think. There’s a lot of mutual respect with the people that I work with and ultimately, we have the same goals.
How do you source your clothes?
I source most items from PR companies and from designers. When I travel, I’m always searching for interesting pieces made by local designers or looking for unique pieces at markets.
